China has strongly criticised the decision of Japan and the Philippines to begin formal discussions on delimiting their maritime boundary, calling the move “illegal” and invalid.The talks were announced after Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.met with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi in Tokyo, where both sides agreed to initiate negotiations on defining the economic zone and continental shelf between the two countries.

Beijing reacted sharply, with foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning stating that China is “strongly dissatisfied with and firmly opposed” to the discussions.

According to China, the waters in question fall under its claimed exclusive economic zone and continental shelf, particularly in areas east of Taiwan.

The Chinese government also said it had already lodged formal diplomatic protests, described as “solemn representations,” with both Japan and the Philippines regarding the matter.The development adds another layer of tension to ongoing regional maritime disputes.Japan and China already have long-standing disagreements in the East China Sea, where coast guard vessels frequently engage in confrontations.

Meanwhile, in the South China Sea, China’s deployment of navy and coast guard forces has led to repeated standoffs with the Philippines over disputed reefs and islands.

Despite Beijing’s objections, Japan and the Philippines have been strengthening bilateral ties in recent years, partly due to shared concerns over China’s expanding maritime activities.

The proposed boundary talks are seen by both Manila and Tokyo as a step toward clarifying maritime jurisdictions and improving regional stability, even as China continues to reject the legitimacy of such negotiations.